Imagine the smoky aroma of perfectly grilled burgers wafting through your backyard. Or picture tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs straight from a smoker. If these delicious thoughts make your mouth water, then you’re in the right place. Outdoor grilling and smoking are fantastic ways to enjoy delicious food and great company.
But let’s be honest, choosing the right grill or smoker can feel like a big decision. So many types exist! Do you need charcoal or gas? What about a pellet smoker? It’s easy to get confused and feel unsure about what will best fit your needs and budget. You want to cook amazing food, not get lost in a sea of technical jargon.
This post is here to help you cut through the confusion. We’ll break down the different kinds of outdoor grills and smokers, explaining what makes each one special. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which one is perfect for your next backyard barbecue or slow-cooked masterpiece. Get ready to become a grilling and smoking pro!
Our Top 5 Outdoor Grill And Smoker Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Outdoor Grill And Smoker Detailed Reviews
1. Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill with Offset Smoker & Side Burner
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready to elevate your backyard barbecues with the Grills House 2-Burner Gas and Charcoal Combo Grill. This all-in-one grilling powerhouse offers incredible versatility for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.
What We Like:
- Dual Fuel Freedom: Enjoy the best of both worlds! Cook with the quick convenience of gas or the rich, authentic flavor of charcoal. The attached offset smoker adds a deep, smoky taste to your meats, and the side burner lets you cook up delicious sauces or side dishes at the same time.
- Massive Cooking Space: With a huge 1020 square inches of total cooking area, you can easily grill up to 36 burgers at once. The main grill has 666 square inches, the warming rack is 157 square inches, and the smoker adds another 197 square inches.
- Smoker Versatility: The offset smoker is a game-changer. Use it to infuse your food with smoky goodness or even as an extra charcoal grill. Adding charcoal and cleaning out ashes is super easy thanks to the side door.
- Powerful and Quick Heat: The grill boasts 34,000 BTUs of total heat power, with two main burners and a side burner. The push-button piezo ignition means you can get grilling fast without needing batteries.
- Customizable Heat Control: The height-adjustable charcoal pan gives you great control over your cooking temperature. You can easily switch between slow-cooking, searing, and smoking your favorite foods.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the cooking area is extensive, the individual gas and charcoal sections are 333 sq. in. each, which might feel a little small for very large cuts of meat on each side simultaneously.
- The maximum charcoal capacity for both the grill and smoker is relatively low (3.3 lb. and 1.5 lb.), meaning you might need to refuel more often for longer cooks.
This Grills House combo grill is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves to entertain and wants a variety of cooking options in one convenient unit. It’s built to handle all your outdoor cooking needs.
2. Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to become the grill master of your neighborhood with the Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker. This grill is designed for serious outdoor cooking, whether you’re camping or just enjoying your backyard. Its spacious design and smart features make it easy to create delicious, smoky meals.
What We Like:
- Massive Cooking Space: With 823 square inches total, you can cook for a crowd. This includes 475 sq. in. for grilling, a 151 sq. in. warming rack, and a 197 sq. in. offset smoker.
- Amazing Smoky Flavors: The attached offset smoker lets heat and smoke flow perfectly, giving your food that irresistible smoky taste. Adding charcoal and clearing ashes is simple with the easy-open side door.
- Temperature Control Made Easy: The adjustable two-level charcoal pan lets you easily change how hot your grill gets. Just move the pan up or down to get the perfect cooking temperature.
- Built-in Thermometer: Keep an eye on your grill’s temperature with the easy-to-read lid thermometer. This helps you cook everything just right.
- Plenty of Workspace: The front and side tables give you room for your spices and tools. A bottom shelf is also there for extra storage, holding up to 20 lbs. of accessories.
What Could Be Improved:
- Offset Smoker Attachment: While it ensures good circulation, the offset smoker is permanently attached, limiting placement options.
- Storage Weight Limit: The bottom shelf has a weight limit of 20 lbs. for accessories, which might not be enough for very heavy items.
This grill offers a fantastic way to enjoy charcoal grilling and smoking. It’s a great choice for anyone who loves outdoor cooking and wants delicious, flavorful food.
3. Royal Gourmet CC2036F Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker
Rating: 9.0/10
The Royal Gourmet CC2036F Barrel Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker is a backyard barbecue champion, ready to host your biggest parties. Its large grilling area and powerful smoker mean you can cook for a crowd without breaking a sweat. This grill is built for serious outdoor cooking, from slow-smoked ribs to perfectly seared steaks.
What We Like:
- Tremendous Cooking Space: With 1200 sq. in. of total cooking area, including the main grates, warming rack, and offset smoker, you can feed 8-10 people easily.
- Versatile Offset Smoker: The firmly attached offset smoker gives you extra space for smoking or grilling side dishes, adding more flavor to your meal.
- Adjustable Charcoal Pan: You can change the height of the charcoal pan to control the heat better. It holds a good amount of charcoal for long cooking sessions.
- Easy Charcoal Access: The side charcoal door lets you add more coal without taking off the grates, keeping the cooking process smooth.
- Simple Cleanup: A removable grease drip cup and charcoal pan make cleaning up after your cookout much easier.
What Could Be Improved:
- Assembly may require some effort.
- While durable, the porcelain-enameled steel wire might show wear over time with heavy use.
This Royal Gourmet grill is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves hosting outdoor gatherings and wants to impress with their grilling and smoking skills. It offers great capacity and features for enjoyable, hassle-free barbecues.
4. Ninja OG751 Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill Built-In Thermometer
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready to level up your outdoor cooking game with the Ninja OG751 Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill! This amazing 7-in-1 appliance does it all, from grilling and smoking to air frying and baking. It’s designed to give you that authentic smoky flavor without the fuss of charcoal or propane. Plus, it’s tough enough to handle any weather and perfect for apartments because it’s electric!
What We Like:
- It’s a 7-in-1 cooking machine: Master Grill, BBQ Smoker, and Outdoor Air Fryer are just the start. You can also Bake, Roast, Dehydrate, and Broil.
- You get real smoky flavor with Ninja Woodfire Technology. It uses electricity and real wood pellets to create delicious smoke you can see and taste.
- Making BBQ is easy and fast. You only need 1/2 cup of wood pellets to get that authentic smoky bark and flavor.
- Enjoy smoky flavor on your air-fried foods, too! Cook your sides outdoors and give them a smoky twist.
- The built-in thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking. It tells you when your food is perfectly done, so you can relax and enjoy the party.
- It’s built to last outdoors all year round because it’s weather-resistant.
- This grill is apartment-friendly! It’s electric, so there’s no charcoal, propane, or messy flare-ups.
- It comes with everything you need to get started: a grill grate, crisper basket, thermometer, pellet scoop, two types of Ninja Woodfire Pellets, and a recipe guide.
What Could Be Improved:
- The cooking surface size (141 sq. in.) might be a bit small for very large gatherings.
- While the pellets are for flavor, you do need to purchase them separately after the starter packs run out.
The Ninja OG751 Woodfire Pro Outdoor Grill is a fantastic, versatile option for anyone who loves smoky flavors and outdoor cooking. It makes achieving delicious results surprisingly simple, no matter your experience level.
5. EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker for Outdoors
Rating: 9.0/10
If you love smoky flavors but dread the constant work, the EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker might be your new best friend. This smoker makes it easy to get that delicious slow-cooked taste without all the fuss. It’s built for outdoor fun, letting you cook big meals for friends and family with less effort.
What We Like:
- It lets you smoke for much longer on one load of wood chips, so you don’t have to refill it as often. This means more flavor gets locked into your food.
- The built-in meat probe is a lifesaver. It tells you the exact inside temperature of your meat, so you know when it’s perfectly cooked without even opening the smoker.
- You can add more wood chips easily through the side loader without letting any heat escape. This keeps the smoke steady and the flavor consistent.
- It has a large cooking area, so you can smoke a lot of food at once, like several racks of ribs or whole chickens. It’s great for parties.
- The digital controls are super simple to use. You just set the time and temperature, and the smoker does the rest. It’s truly a “set it and forget it” kind of appliance.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s designed for ease of use, some smokers might prefer more advanced controls or customization options.
- The 30-inch size is good for most, but very large gatherings might require a bigger unit or multiple smokers.
The EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting delicious smoked food with minimal hassle. It makes backyard cooking simple and enjoyable.
Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Outdoor Grill and Smoker
So, you want to cook amazing food outside? Whether you’re craving smoky ribs or perfectly grilled burgers, an outdoor grill and smoker is your ticket to deliciousness. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you find your perfect match.
What to Look For: Key Features
When you’re shopping, keep these important features in mind.
Grilling Surface Size
- How much food can you cook? Think about how many people you usually cook for. A bigger grill means you can cook more at once.
- Small grills are great for couples or small families.
- Large grills work well for parties and big gatherings.
Temperature Control
- Can you set the heat just right? Good temperature control is super important. You want to be able to cook low and slow for smoking or get things hot for searing.
- Look for adjustable vents on smokers or easy-to-use knobs on gas grills.
Ease of Cleaning
- Nobody likes a messy grill! A good grill is easy to clean.
- Removable grease trays and easy-to-wipe surfaces make a big difference.
Durability
- Will it last? You want a grill that can handle being outside in different weather.
- Sturdy construction is key.
Versatility (Grill and Smoke!)
- Do you want to do both? Some grills can also smoke food. This gives you more cooking options.
- Look for features like separate smoking boxes or designs that allow for indirect heat cooking.
What It’s Made Of: Important Materials
The materials used in your grill and smoker affect how well it works and how long it lasts.
Stainless Steel
- This is a popular choice. It’s strong, doesn’t rust easily, and looks good.
- High-quality stainless steel makes a grill last longer.
Cast Iron
- Cast iron grates hold heat really well. This gives you great searing marks on your food.
- It can rust if not cared for, so you need to season and clean it properly.
Porcelain-Enameled Steel
- This coating is tough and prevents rust. It’s also easy to clean.
- It’s a good option for grates and grill bodies.
Quality Matters: What Makes a Grill Great (or Not So Great)
Some things make a grill awesome, and others can be a letdown.
What Makes it Better
- Thick metal: Thicker metal holds heat better and lasts longer.
- Good seals: On smokers, tight seals keep the smoke inside where it belongs.
- Even heating: You want your food to cook evenly all over the grill.
- Sturdy legs and wheels: This makes it easy to move your grill around.
What Makes it Worse
- Thin metal: This can warp or rust quickly.
- Wobbly parts: If it feels loose, it probably won’t last.
- Uneven cooking: This means some parts of your food might burn while others are undercooked.
- Hard-to-reach ash catchers: This makes cleaning a pain.
Cooking Up Fun: User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll actually use your grill and smoker.
For the Weekend Warrior
- If you love grilling burgers and hot dogs for family cookouts, a good gas grill with a decent grilling surface will be perfect. You want something that heats up fast and is easy to clean.
For the Smoker Enthusiast
- If you dream of tender, smoky brisket or pulled pork, a dedicated smoker or a grill with good smoking capabilities is what you need. Look for features that help you control temperature and hold smoke.
For the Versatile Cook
- Maybe you want to grill some chicken one night and smoke some salmon the next. A combination grill and smoker offers the best of both worlds. You can sear steaks and then add wood chips for a smoky flavor.
For Small Spaces
- Don’t have a huge backyard? A compact charcoal grill or a smaller gas grill can still deliver amazing flavor. Look for models that are easy to store.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Outdoor Grills and Smokers
Here are some common questions people ask.
Q: What’s the difference between a grill and a smoker?
A: A grill cooks food quickly over direct heat. A smoker cooks food slowly at lower temperatures using smoke. Some devices can do both!
Q: What kind of fuel should I use?
A: You can use charcoal, propane gas, or electricity. Charcoal gives a smoky flavor. Propane is easy to control. Electric is simple but may not have as much flavor.
Q: How do I clean my grill?
A: You should clean your grill after each use. Brush off food bits and empty the grease trap. For deeper cleaning, use soap and water.
Q: Can I leave my grill outside all year?
A: It’s best to cover your grill when it’s not in use. This protects it from rain and sun. Some grills are made to be more weather-resistant than others.
Q: What is “indirect heat” and why is it important for smoking?
A: Indirect heat means the food isn’t directly over the flame. It’s like baking in an oven. This is important for smoking because it cooks the food slowly without burning it.
Q: How do I get that smoky flavor?
A: You can add wood chips or chunks to your grill. Soak them in water first, then add them to the hot coals or in a smoker box. Different woods give different flavors.
Q: What’s a good temperature for smoking meat?
A: For most smoking, you want to stay between 225°F and 275°F. This cooks the meat slowly and makes it tender.
Q: How do I know when my food is cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer! It’s the best way to know if your food is cooked safely and to your liking.
Q: Are expensive grills really better?
A: Sometimes. More expensive grills often use better materials and have more features. But you can still find great grills at different price points.
Q: What’s the easiest type of grill to use for beginners?
A: Many beginners find propane gas grills easiest because they are simple to start and control the temperature.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!